Why Do Acids Like HCl Donate Protons?

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The discussion centers on the factors influencing the proton donation of acids, specifically hydrochloric acid (HCl). It explores the role of electronegativity in this process, questioning whether the conjugate acid's electronegativity affects proton dissociation. While electronegativity is acknowledged as a factor, participants emphasize that other elements, such as the ability of Lewis bases to donate electrons, also play a significant role. The conversation references a tutorial that provides insights into estimating the relative strength of acids and bases, highlighting the complexity of acid-base interactions beyond mere electronegativity comparisons.
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I wondered if anyone could help me with a question. Do acids such as HCl donate protons because the conjugate acid is more electronegative? Such as the O in H2O is more EN than Cl, and that's why the H+ dissociates?
 
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It is not about just electronegativity - what is more electronegative, oxygen in SO42- or oxygen in H2O?
 
I'd have to say So4^2- because it carries a negative charge, so it will attract protons...?
 
What about HSO4- then?
 
Here's a nice tutorial describing how one might estimate the relative strength of various acids and bases. Electronegativity is one factor, but there are other factors that are important as well:

http://www.chem.ucla.edu/harding/tutorials/acids_and_bases/mol_str.pdf
 
Thanks for that I'll watch it.
 
That's actually really helpful. I see it's as I suspected more to do with the lewis bases ability to donate electrons. Like the protons are pulled from the acid.
 
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